Rose Ellen Sterk, Janesville (1942-2013)

Rose Ellen Sterk, age 71, of Janesville, died Thursday, Nov. 7, 2013, at St. Mary's Janesville Hospital. She was born in Janesville, on Sept. 26, 1942, the daughter of Frederick and Laura (Thornton) Henke and was a 1960 graduate of Janesville High School. Rose married Thomas J. Sterk on Sept. 15, 1962, in Janesville, and he preceded her in death on Oct. 23, 1986. She had been employed by First National Bank, Marine Bank, Bank One and Chase Bank in various capacities; however, she was most well known for being the Senior Champs Coordinator. Rose was an active member of St. William Catholic Church being a part of numerous groups. She also volunteered for the Rotary Botanical Gardens and Rock County Historical Society, serving on its board, the Spicy Red Hatters and Bank One Retirees. Rose was also affectionately known as “Grandma Rose” in Evansville, as she was a very active supporter of Evansville School activities.

Rose is survived by her three children: Matthew (Michelle) Sterk of Fort Wayne, IN, Daniel (Kris) Sterk of Franksville, and Lynn (Tom) Olson of Evansville; five grandchildren: Thomas Sterk, Cara Olson, Cole Sterk, Julia Sterk, and Drew Olson; step grandson, Stephen Sterk; a great- granddaughter, Kay; a sister, Dolores Barlass of Janesville; two brothers, Bob (Elsie) Henke of Janesville and Ed Henke of Milwaukee; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brother, Fred Henke.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013, at ST. WILLIAM CATHOLIC CHURCH with Fr. John Auby officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Monday from 4 until 7 p.m. at the SCHNEIDER APFEL SCHNEIDER & SCHNEIDER FUNERAL HOME and CREMATORY. Memorials may be made to the Rock County Historical Society, Rotary Botanical Gardens, or St. William Catholic Church. For on-line guestbook and condolences: www.schneiderfuneraldirectors.com

Rose was a very devoted mother and grandmother.

“The family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Mary's Hospital and Dean Clinic, Janesville, and to Agrace Hospice for all the wonderful care they gave to Rose”.